James Cannon • Future Primitive NZ
My name is James Cannon, an award-winning New Zealand artist and sculptor based in Taumarunui. My journey began through Te Toi Whakairo, where I was traditionally trained by Kaiako Kenny Jones, before continuing my studies under Master Carvers Te Kuiti Stewart and Hohepa Peni at Te Wānanga o Aotearoa, graduating with excellence in 2013. After years immersed in whakairo and creating public artworks, my artistic journey evolved into large-scale recycled metal sculpture and imaginative contemporary creations. Combining craftsmanship, storytelling, and imagination, I transform forgotten materials into unique artworks that celebrate creativity, connection, and transformation — continuing an evolving artistic legacy.

Friday, April 29, 2016

Māori Art Meets Street Art: Painting Rua-i-te-whaihanga

A local shop in town asked me to join a team of Hamilton-based graffiti artists. The plan was to bring life to the plain shop walls with something colourful, meaningful, and striking to lift the mood and atmosphere of the space.

Having never done graffiti before, I saw it as a great opportunity to give it a go! Rather than just scribbling all over the wall, I wanted to try inspiring the group with some different styles and techniques, so I decided to paint Rua-i-te-whaihanga. BOOM!

Rua-i-te-whaihanga personifies the power of building and creation. He represents the creative spark that turns an idea or concept into a physical structure, overseeing the initial design, planning, and craftsmanship.

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